Pakistani Runners Gear Up for Chicago Marathon with Purpose

This Sunday, the Chicago Marathon will witness a strong Pakistani presence. Over two dozen runners, representing both Pakistan and its diaspora from countries including the UK, USA, Norway, UAE, and Saudi Arabia, will join more than 53,000 athletes on the streets of Chicago.

While some aim for personal bests, others are running for a more significant cause. Faisal Shafi, a leading Pakistani marathon runner, spearheads the contingent with a clear humanitarian goal.

Faisal Shafi’s Mission

Shafi, a 43-year-old athlete and Guinness World Record holder, intends to raise five million rupees to aid families impacted by the devastating floods in Pakistan. These funds will be channeled through the United Nations relief program.

Running for a Cause

“This year in Chicago, I am running for a cause,” Shafi stated before leaving for the United States. “Marathons offer a platform to create awareness and support those in need. Our people continue to suffer from the recent floods, and we must assist them.”

Having recently completed the Sydney Marathon to achieve the “Seven Star” distinction, Shafi also holds a Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon in combat attire. This will be his second appearance in the Chicago event, adding to his legacy of endurance and national pride.

The Chicago Marathon Experience

The Chicago Marathon, a prominent World Marathon Major, is celebrated for its flat, rapid, and picturesque route spanning 29 of the city’s neighborhoods. Since its inception in 1977, the race has evolved into a globally recognized event, attracting both elite athletes and amateur runners.

The course starts and ends in Grant Park, guiding runners past landmarks like the Loop, Lincoln Park Zoo, Wrigleyville, and Chinatown, all lined with enthusiastic spectators.

The event has been the stage for numerous remarkable performances, including world records and legendary debut runs.

Women Leading the Way

Several female runners are emerging as inspiring figures within Pakistan’s growing running community. Sana Malik, based in Karachi, is returning to the global marathon scene after a year’s absence.

Malik, who began running recreationally, completed her first marathon in Amsterdam in 2022 with a time of 4 hours and 52 minutes. In Berlin a year later, she improved her time to 4:04.

Sana Malik’s Aspiration

“My training has been more intense than for Berlin,” Sana mentioned.

“Balancing a full-time job in advertising with training was difficult, but one must persevere. Marathon participants aim for both the experience and a personal best. I hope to surpass my previous time in Chicago. Finishing under 4:04 would be great, but enjoying the run is what matters most.”

Dania Ali, also from Karachi, will be making her World Marathon Majors debut at the Chicago Marathon.

“I’ve been training with a coach experienced with this course, structuring my plan around Chicago’s flat terrain,” she explained. “My goal is to finish and savor every moment.”

Ali also highlighted the challenges faced by women during training in Pakistan.

“We can’t simply leave home to run,” she said. “Training is often confined to Phase VIII’s quieter roads and Zamzama Park. However, the running community is incredibly supportive, with someone always willing to join you on early morning runs.”

The Spirit of Perseverance

For many runners, the Chicago Marathon is a physical and mental challenge. Yasir Memon from Karachi sees marathon running as a reflection of Pakistan’s resilience.

“The real race isn’t just on October 12 in Chicago, but every morning I’ve trained throughout the year,” he said. “This journey mirrors our national spirit: pushing forward despite difficulties. I dedicate my run to those back home who choose faith over fear and strive against the odds. Pakistan Zindabad.”

Yawar Siddiqui from Islamabad arrives in Chicago with confidence gained from recent experiences.

“After running Sydney and other challenging courses this year, I look forward to Chicago’s flat streets,” he said. “It’s a fast marathon. I’ve built a solid foundation in Sydney, so the goal is to push for a personal best and execute perfectly.”

A Diverse Contingent

The Pakistani contingent includes runners from major cities in Pakistan, as well as expatriates from around the world.

Participants from Pakistan include Yasir Memon, Shah Faisal Khan, Sana Malik, Yawar Siddiqui, Bilal Umar, Syed Ahsan Ejaz, Muhammad Tajdaar Iqbal, Saood Hamid, Dania Ali, Dr. Safdar Ali Sheikh, Dr. Fareed Sheikh, and Syeda Maimoona Hamdani.

Overseas Pakistanis include Imran Zaffar and Maheen Sheikh from the UK; Salman Ilyas, Osman Sarood, Abbas Naqvi, Umer Shafiq, Nizar Nayani, Atiq ul Hassan, Aisha Qamar, Babar Ghias, Adnan Afzal, and M. Rizwan Khawaja from the USA; Khoula Ahmed from Norway; Shazia Nawaz from the UAE; and Raja Arif Khan from Saudi Arabia.

Together, they represent a significant Pakistani presence in a World Marathon Major. Each runner embodies resilience, dedication, and ambition, from Shafi’s flood relief efforts to Sana’s personal goals and Memon’s message of perseverance.

As they line up in Chicago, these Pakistani runners will be chasing time and representing the growing spirit of Pakistan’s running community, one that runs with heart and pride.